Alright, streaming enthusiasts, gather ’round! In a world absolutely flooded with content, finding your next great watch can feel like a Herculean task. Seriously, who has the time to scroll endlessly, trying to sift through the digital noise? Luckily, we’ve taken on that noble quest for you, diving deep into Hulu’s ever-expanding library to unearth some absolute gems.
For over a decade, Hulu has been a significant player in the streaming game, evolving from its earlier iterations to become the content powerhouse it is today, largely owned by Disney. By 2018, it boasted over 20 million subscribers, and it’s only grown since then, offering an incredible suite of content. We’re talking Hulu-branded originals, big-budget Hollywood blockbusters, fascinating independent horror films, and a host of first-run content thanks to licensing deals with major entertainment companies like Lionsgate and Annapurna Pictures.
Beyond its sheer volume, Hulu has consistently earned solid notices for its original content, with critical acclaim for shows like ‘Shrill’ and ‘PEN15’ in 2020. And let’s not forget the Emmy Award-winning program ‘The Handmaid’s Tale,’ which first premiered in 2017, truly elevating the streamer to a higher echelon of industry recognition. So, if you’re looking for proof that Hulu isn’t just playing games, its pedigree speaks for itself. We’ve done the parsing, exploring, and perusing, and trust us, you’re in for a treat with this brace of movies to keep you busy and entertainment-sated. Get ready to update your watchlist, because from breakthrough hits to lauded Oscar winners and beguiling indie fare, here are some of the absolute best movies on Hulu right now.
1. **Derek DelGaudio’s In & Of Itself (2021)**This isn’t your grandpa’s magic show, folks. ‘Derek DelGaudio’s In & Of Itself’ is a filmed version of a theatrical experience that ran for an astonishing 552 performances. Directed by the legendary Frank Oz, this isn’t about traditional illusions or disappearing acts in the vein of David Blaine or David Copperfield. It’s something far more profound, something that sits at the intersection of magic, storytelling, and philosophy.
The film challenges your perceptions and invites you into a deeply personal, often unsettling, yet ultimately moving experience. The less you know going in, the more impactful it will be. It’s a masterclass in engaging an audience, making you laugh, gasp, and maybe even shed a tear or two as it delves into themes of identity, perception, and human connection. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind cinematic journey.
DelGaudio’s performance is incredibly intimate, blurring the lines between performer and spectator, reality and illusion. It’s an intellectual puzzle wrapped in a heartfelt narrative, making it a must-see for anyone looking for something truly original that will stick with you long after the credits roll. While it can’t quite replicate the feeling of a live “night on the town,” it definitely scratches that “experience” itch, proving that some magic is best understood when it challenges everything you thought you knew.
2. **Fire Island (2022)**Get ready for a sun-drenched, witty, and utterly charming romantic comedy that brings a classic tale into the modern era. ‘Fire Island’ is a contemporary update of Jane Austen’s ‘Pride and Prejudice,’ set against the vibrant backdrop of a popular tourist destination for gay men. While knowing Austen’s original work certainly adds layers of appreciation, it’s by no means a prerequisite to absolutely fall in love with this film.
Directed by Andrew Ahn, this movie delivers on both the romance and the comedy, a rare feat in today’s rom-com landscape. Star Joel Kim Booster also penned the script, which is absolutely brimming with sizzling insights about queer men navigating the sometimes-tricky waters between casual hookups and committed relationships. It’s not just funny; it’s insightful, tender, and incredibly relatable.
The ensemble cast shines, bringing a genuine warmth and chemistry that makes you want to hang out with these characters all summer long. ‘Fire Island’ offers a fresh perspective on love and friendship, proving that universal themes of connection and acceptance can be beautifully explored through diverse lenses. It’s a film that’s worth sweating and swooning over, a perfect blend of humor and heart that will leave you smiling.
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3. **Happiest Season (2020)**Looking for a festive rom-com with a modern twist and an all-star cast? ‘Happiest Season’ is your answer. Directed and co-written by Clea DuVall, this film assembled an impressively deep bench of talent, with Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis leading the charge as the central couple. They’re joined by an incredible supporting cast including Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza, Mary Steenburgen, Victor Garber, and Ana Gasteyer, making it a veritable rom-com central.
This movie is a quintessential “gathering the fam for the holidays” narrative, but it smartly weaves in a contemporary wrinkle: the pressure of coming out to one’s parents during a family holiday. DuVall masterfully maintains a steady mood, allowing the talented cast to bring real depth and life to the ensemble. It’s a heartfelt story that explores the complexities of family expectations, self-acceptance, and the courage it takes to be truly seen.
Despite facing challenges during its initial release, getting caught up in the COVID-19 floating release date/platform churn, ‘Happiest Season’ overcame it all with an abundance of heart. It has quickly become a modern holiday classic, offering future Christmas audiences a chance to cozy up with warm sweaters and enjoy a genuinely moving group watch. It’s a story that resonates, whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just looking for a heartfelt romantic comedy.
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4. **Mean Girls (2004)**Oh, honey, how many times can you watch the millennial high school movie classic ‘Mean Girls’ without getting tired of it? To quote just one of the manifold lines it’s gifted to the popular vernacular, “the limit does not exist!” This movie is not just a film; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a rite of passage for many, and it holds up brilliantly nearly two decades later.
Written by Tina Fey and directed by Mark Waters, this boundlessly funny comedy captures the early-aughts high school experience with devastating accuracy, while also tapping into something timeless about the clique mentality that defines adolescence in any era. It’s a masterclass in satirical humor, exploring the intricate and often brutal social hierarchies of high school with razor-sharp wit and unforgettable characters like Regina George, Cady Heron, and the eternally quotable Plastics.
Beyond the laughs, ‘Mean Girls’ offers a surprisingly insightful look at identity, conformity, and the challenges of fitting in while staying true to yourself. Its clever dialogue, memorable performances from Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, and Tina Fey, and enduring relevance make it an essential watch. Good luck getting anything this good for your cohort, Gen Z! It’s simply fetch.
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5. **The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)**When we talk about unique cinematic visions, Wes Anderson’s name is always at the top, and ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’ is a magnificent example of his artistry. While Anderson has certainly become an aesthetic unto himself – those pastel hues and clean geometric compositions are instantly recognizable – he’s a filmmaker first and foremost. This movie serves as a powerful reminder that beyond his distinctive visual style, he is also an excellent writer.
Anderson’s script, co-written with star Owen Wilson, truly gives birth to an entire menagerie of colorful characters within a dynamic but wonderfully dysfunctional family. These aren’t just inspirations for hipster Halloween costumes; they are intricately drawn people, each shaped by the erratic patriarch, Royal Tenenbaum, brilliantly played by Gene Hackman. The film explores themes of genius, failure, family legacy, and the yearning for connection with both humor and poignant depth.
It’s a tale that masterfully blends quirky comedy with genuine heartache, showcasing how past glories and present disappointments intertwine within a family unit. The performances are superb across the board, making you feel deeply for these eccentric individuals as they try to navigate their complicated lives and relationships. ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’ is a rich, rewarding cinematic experience that solidifies Anderson’s place as a storyteller who can craft narratives as compelling as his visuals.
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6. **March of the Penguins 2: The Next Step (2018)**Prepare to be absolutely mesmerized by the sheer beauty and emotional depth of ‘March of the Penguins 2: The Next Step.’ As the camera gracefully sweeps across an azure expanse with no discernible horizon, accompanied by stirring string music that lifts your spirit, you know instantly you can drop the remote and cease your search for something to watch. This nature documentary truly grabs you from the very first frame.
Directed by Luc Jacquet, this sequel to the hit 2005 documentary ‘March of the Penguins’ brings back the wonderfully omniscient narration of Morgan Freeman, whose voice alone is enough to transport you. He intones, “Meet the remarkable Emperor Penguin…again,” and thousands of these titular birds are depicted in their wild, windy, freezing natural habitat of Antarctica. You’ll see them bopping to and fro, encountering one another as if at some strange avian cocktail mixer, living out their incredible journey of survival and reproduction.
‘The Next Step’ takes you on an even deeper journey, traveling 2000 feet below the surface of the Southern Ocean, following one penguin as it drifts past otherworldly sea creatures and vast fields of octopi. It also meticulously tracks the perilous journey of an infant Emperor, covered in dun peach fuzz, as it sets out from its windswept inland home “for an ocean it’s never seen.” It’s a breathtaking exploration of instinct, insight, and full immersion in a place none of us will likely ever experience firsthand. This film is more than just a documentary; it’s a journey waiting to be taken, offering a profound connection to the natural world.
7. **Ford v Ferrari (2019)**Gentlemen, start your engines, because ‘Ford v Ferrari’ is a historical tale that runs like a perfectly well-oiled machine. This gripping film chronicles how a scrappy team of American racers took on the formidable Italian behemoth of Ferrari at the legendary Le Mans race. Director James Mangold’s sleek craftsmanship ensures that the engine of this story hums with pure, unadulterated cinematic power.
However, the film’s high-octane performance wouldn’t be possible without the incredible fuel provided by the soulful performances of Matt Damon and Christian Bale. They play the clashing visionaries behind the foolhardy Ford project, Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles, respectively. Damon’s Shelby is the shrewd designer and former racer, while Bale’s Miles is the brilliant but hot-headed British driver, and their dynamic is the heart and soul of the film. Their complex friendship and professional partnership drive the narrative, showcasing the grit, determination, and passion required to challenge the established order.
This isn’t just a movie about cars and racing; it’s about ambition, rivalry, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence against all odds. The racing sequences are thrillingly shot, putting you right in the driver’s seat, feeling every turn and every surge of power. It’s peak dad-core cinema, but honestly, it’s just peak cinema, full stop. Whether you’re a gearhead or just love a compelling underdog story, ‘Ford v Ferrari’ delivers on all cylinders.
Alright, streaming enthusiasts, we’re not done yet! If you thought Section 1 was a feast for your eyeballs, prepare yourself for another generous helping of cinematic excellence. Hulu’s vault is deep, packed with an array of films that have garnered critical acclaim, defined genres, and captivated audiences for years. So, let’s dive deeper into eight more standout movies you absolutely need to add to your watchlist.
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8. **Rye Lane (2023)**Rumors of the contemporary rom-com’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. Director Raine Allen Miller shows there’s more than enough fuel in the tank with Rye Lane, a day-in-the-life story as the sparks of passion rage between South Londoners Yas (Vivian Oparah) and Dom (David Jonsson). It’s a vibrant, fresh take on modern romance that feels both classic and cutting-edge.
It works as both portraiture and landscape as they amble about town, navigating the vibrant cityscape while delving into their past hang-ups and hopes for the future. The film masterfully captures the energy of London and the palpable chemistry between its leads, making every moment feel alive and spontaneous.
The witty dialogue and relatable emotional arcs make this a thoroughly enjoyable watch, proving that the rom-com genre still has plenty to offer. It’ll charm you to no end, leaving you with a warm and fuzzy feeling long after the credits roll and reminding you why you fell in love with rom-coms in the first place.
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9. **Jennifer’s Body (2009)**If your recollection of Jennifer’s Body is that of a tawdry, trashy horror flick featuring a solicitous Megan Fox, then you’re precisely the person who needs to see it again. The studio tragically mismarketed Karyn Kusama’s queer-coded teen vampire film to the kinds of teen boys that Fox’s Jennifer lures into her literal thirst trap, missing the point entirely.
But it’s not for or about them; it’s an uncommonly insightful look at female desire and its limited range of expression in the halls of high school. The film cleverly dissects themes of friendship, betrayal, and the predatory nature of certain social dynamics, all wrapped up in a supernatural package.
The movie is as fun as it is frightening, delivering both genuine scares and sharp comedic moments. It has earned a well-deserved re-evaluation in recent years, cementing its place as a cult classic with a powerful, enduring message that resonates more strongly today than ever before.
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10. **Sweet Home Alabama (2002)**When we look back at the illustrious career of Reese Witherspoon, Sweet Home Alabama may well be the definitive star text. It’s got all the trappings of her favorite narrative conventions – namely, a supremely qualified woman with two men fighting for her hand – but a satisfying meta layer as well, allowing for both humor and genuine introspection.
As her powerful New York fashion designer Melanie Carmichael prepares for a high-society marriage, she must return to her Alabamian roots to tie up some loose ends. This journey forces her to confront her past, the person she used to be, and the enduring connections she thought she’d left behind.
She thought she could simply sever herself from the South but unexpectedly finds that she’s carried more affection for her home than initially realized. The film beautifully explores the struggle to bridge two worlds inside herself, celebrating both personal growth and the enduring pull of one’s origins, all with Reese Witherspoon’s undeniable charm at the helm.
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11. **The Darjeeling Limited (2007)**Stealthily one of the best Wes Anderson movies, The Darjeeling Limited provides the director’s trademark cleanly planned aesthetic with a big helping of heart and humanity. This story of three brothers uniting on a train running through India to reconnect and reconcile following a fissure in their family features some of the most accurate portrayals of how male family members interact with one another.
Anderson abandons his traditional ironic detachment to sensitively render the way guys talk around their real issues rather than tackling them head-on. The film’s vibrant visual style, with its meticulous framing and saturated colors, is complemented by a poignant exploration of grief, brotherhood, and the elusive search for spiritual enlightenment.
It’s a compelling journey that reminds us of the complicated yet unbreakable bonds of family, even when buried under layers of awkwardness and unresolved tension. The individual performances, particularly from Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody, and Jason Schwartzman, capture a nuanced blend of humor and pathos that makes the characters feel incredibly real.
The result is both oddly humorous and profoundly heartwarming, offering a unique blend of quirky charm and deep emotional resonance. It’s a beautiful testament to how shared experiences, even chaotic ones, can eventually lead to understanding and a renewed sense of connection, proving that sometimes you have to travel halfway across the world to find your way back home.
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12. **O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)**Leave it to the Coen Brothers to crack what English teachers couldn’t for decades: how to make Homer’s The Odyssey interesting. Step one: give it a Grammy-winning bluegrass and country soundtrack that became a cultural phenomenon in its own right. Step two: stage it with all the zaniness of a Looney Tunes-cartoon, complete with absurd chases and larger-than-life characters.
Step three: transpose it to the Depression-era American South and make Odysseus a convict played by a charismatic George Clooney. The film is a masterful blend of slapstick comedy, witty dialogue, and a surprisingly heartfelt exploration of redemption, destiny, and the search for home amidst a backdrop of colorful eccentricity.
George Clooney, John Turturro, and Tim Blake Nelson form an unforgettable trio, their misadventures leading them through a landscape populated by eccentric figures, from blind prophets to sirens and corrupt politicians. The film’s distinct visual style, achieved through a pioneering digital color correction process, gives it a sepia-toned, timeless quality that perfectly matches its folkloric narrative.
O Brother, Where Art Thou? is perfect for professors too hungover to instruct, and absolutely perfect for your next movie night. Its enduring charm, iconic soundtrack, and clever storytelling make it an unforgettable cinematic experience that stands the test of time and proves classics can always be reimagined with spectacular results.
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13. **The Thin Red Line (1998)**Terrence Malick’s poetic The Thin Red Line is a war film for people who don’t like war films. The philosophical director is focused far less on battle and far more on the existential conflict that war causes in those who fight it. It’s a profound journey into the minds of soldiers grappling with the horrors around them, rather than a mere depiction of combat.
This is a film focused on something bigger than the immediate conflict, keeping a wide lens on war to ponder what brings men to a point where they are so out of sync with the harmony of nature. Malick’s distinctive style, characterized by lyrical voiceovers and sweeping natural imagery, immerses the viewer in a meditative yet brutal experience that contrasts the pristine beauty of the Solomon Islands with the brutal realities of combat.
Featuring an ensemble cast of incredible talent – Jim Caviezel, Sean Penn, Adrien Brody, and many more – the film explores individual struggles for meaning, glimpses of fleeting beauty, and the profound questions of life and death amidst the chaos. It’s a truly immersive sensory experience, designed to evoke deep introspection rather than just adrenaline-fueled action.
It’s a profound meditation on humanity, violence, and the natural world, offering a deeply affecting and visually stunning portrayal of war’s psychological toll. The film challenges conventional war narratives, inviting viewers to contemplate the deeper philosophical questions of existence and our place within the grander scheme of the universe.
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14. **Poor Things (2023)**Make sure that you are very comfortable with whomever you choose to watch Poor Things alongside. That’s in part because you’ll be watching a lot of scenes together. But it’s also because Yorgos Lanthimos’ wild take on coming-of-age, as experienced by the baby brain of Bella Baxter inside an adult body (Emma Stone), is a deeply revelatory experience about the laws that govern the human heart.
This visually stunning and intellectually provocative film delves into how different those laws are from the laws that govern society, charting Bella’s rapid intellectual and ual awakening. Emma Stone’s fearless, utterly committed performance as Bella is a tour-de-force, charting her character’s journey of discovery with unbridled curiosity, defiance, and a raw, almost childlike wonder.
Lanthimos crafts a fantastical, steampunk-inspired world that is as bizarrely beautiful as it is unsettling, full of vibrant colors and grotesque details that serve to emphasize Bella’s unique perspective. The supporting cast, including Mark Ruffalo and Willem Dafoe, deliver wonderfully eccentric performances that perfectly complement Stone’s central turn, creating a truly unforgettable ensemble.
It’s a movie that offers a new way to look at the world from the skewered vantage point only a master like Lanthimos can provide. ‘Poor Things’ is a bizarre, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable cinematic journey that pushes boundaries, sparks conversations about agency and societal norms, and truly immerses you in its unique, captivating vision.
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15. **Anatomy of a Fall (2023)**There are courtroom dramas, and then there’s Anatomy of a Fall. Justine Triet’s Palme d’Or-winning sensation starts within a familiar framework — did a wife (Sandra Hüller’s Sandra Voyter) kill her husband, as she stands accused of doing, or did he simply fall to his death? The initial premise might seem straightforward, but the film quickly unravels into a complex web of uncertainty, drawing you in from the very first scene.
But from there, every aspect of identity goes on the stand as Triet explodes every illusion that the trial is about Sandra’s innocence or guilt. The film meticulously deconstructs a relationship, revealing layers of complexity, resentment, and unspoken truths that lie beneath the surface of a seemingly ordinary marriage, forcing both the characters and the audience to question everything.
The narrative skillfully uses flashbacks and recorded conversations to present conflicting perspectives, making the audience question the reliability of memories and testimonies. This creates a gripping psychological tension that extends beyond the courtroom, drawing viewers into the moral ambiguity of the characters’ lives and the subjectivity of truth itself.
Sandra Hüller delivers a captivating, nuanced performance, making the audience question everything they see and hear, blurring the lines between perception and reality. This gripping and intelligent drama is a masterclass in suspense, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the very end as it delves into the elusive nature of truth and the profound impact of judgment.
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And there you have it, folks! From gripping dramas that challenge your perceptions to heartwarming rom-coms that make you believe in love again, and epic journeys that span across continents or even into the depths of the human psyche, Hulu is truly a treasure trove for cinephiles. This wasn’t just a list; it was an invitation to dive headfirst into stories that entertain, enlighten, and stick with you long after the credits roll. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your popcorn, settle in, and let Hulu transport you to some truly unforgettable cinematic worlds. Happy streaming!
